Honeybees and various pollinating insects play an essential role in the production of approximately one-third of all food and beverages. These pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other species, contribute to the cultivation of crops valued at $24 billion. They are particularly important for growing plants like alfalfa and clover, which are vital to cattle feed. Specifically, honeybee pollination alone is responsible for $15 billion worth of crops from over 130 types of fruits and vegetables.
However, exposure to pesticides is not the only challenge facing these vital pollinators. Honeybee populations are declining at an alarming rate due to a phenomenon known as colony collapse disorder. In recent years, honey sales have surged, partly due to a growing consumer preference for natural sweeteners. Between 2011 and 2016, U.S. sugar sales fell by 16%, while honey sales increased by 57%. Consequently, it is not surprising that most honey samples contain traces of pesticides. Unless limited supplies drive prices too high, consumers are likely to continue purchasing honey, and the presence of pesticides—at levels deemed safe for human consumption—will probably not deter most buyers.
A two-year study released last year by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services highlighted the rapid decline in bee populations. Annual surveys of U.S. beekeepers have reported that around 29% of honeybee colonies have perished each winter since 2006. Food companies that recognize this issue are working to raise awareness. Alex Placzek, U.S. marketing director for Häagen-Dazs, noted that honeybees pollinate many of the ingredients used in their ice cream, bars, and sorbet, with about 40% of all Häagen-Dazs flavors relying on bee-dependent ingredients.
Brands like Celestial Seasonings from Hain Celestial and Talenti, a Unilever brand, have teamed up with the Xerces Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bee conservation. Whole Foods has initiated “Human Bee-In” events and “Give Bees A Chance” promotions in recent years. Additionally, General Mills has partnered with the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Xerces Society in a five-year initiative aimed at restoring over 100,000 acres of pollinator habitats by 2021.
In a related legal case, the nonprofit group Beyond Pesticides filed a lawsuit against Mott’s earlier this year, claiming that the “natural” labeling on its applesauce products is misleading. The complaint argued that residues from the neonicotinoid insecticide acetamiprid should prevent these products from being labeled as “natural,” as such labeling misleads consumers into believing that the products are free from synthetic substances.
In addition to supporting pollinators, consumers are also becoming more aware of the health benefits of supplements, such as Kirkland calcium citrate magnesium and zinc. These supplements are gaining popularity for their potential health advantages, including promoting bone health and enhancing immune function. As consumers increasingly prioritize natural products and health benefits, the demand for both honey and essential supplements like Kirkland calcium citrate magnesium and zinc is likely to rise. This growing awareness and demand may further encourage collaborations aimed at protecting pollinators and promoting healthier lifestyles.